How to survive a “friendcation”

How to survive a “friendcation”

Friends –– can’t live with them, can’t live without them. Whether you’re more of a Mean Girls tribe or the Island of Misfit Toys, it’s likely that you bicker with your closest friends like they’re your siblings. However, when you’re vacationing with them that’s not ideal.

Tight quarters and long hours sometimes bring out the worst in us, and we don’t want to lose friends over something that’s supposed to bring us together. So, next time you decide to head out on a “friendcation” be sure to remind yourself of these five things:

1.Cream of the crop

Photo by Alyssa Forman

You don’t want to get caught in the middle of nowhere, driving with someone whose voice sounds like nails on a chalkboard. Pick who you travel with carefully. Can you stand being with them for more than three hours? Are there any habits of theirs that you simply cannot stand? Really think on it before you hit the road with them.

2. Plan ahead

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Make sure everyone is on the same page about the particulars. Have a low key meeting to decide on when you want to leave, how long you’re going to be gone, transportation, sleeping arrangements, budget (see no. 3), what you want to do while you’re away and so on. By getting it all out on the table, everyone is aware and in agreement on the general timeline, and this will hopefully keep any tension at bay.

3. Money, money, money

Photo by Alyssa Forman

Money is always an awkward topic, but once again, plan ahead. Everyone should agree on a budget that is reasonable for everyone included. Be sure to include hotels and gas, as well as food and entertainment. You don’t want anyone to feel left out, so be courteous and understanding that some people may not be able to afford as much as you – or vice versa. Do this by figuring out what amount everyone is willing to put on the table, or have each person responsible for a different section of the budget. Just make sure that everything is even and fair and everyone pitches in.

4. Divide and conquer

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A big misconception about vacations is that the entire group has to stick together at all times. That’s how arguments happen. If the group wants to split up and do different things, do it! You’re all there to have a good time. Just try to reconvene at the end of the night to make sure you have some quality time that doesn’t feel forced.

5. Keep it real

Photo by Alyssa Forman

Personalities can get in the way of having fun. Don’t let little arguments get in the way of enjoying your vacation. If tension arises, address it head on so that it doesn’t escalate. Get it all off of your chest in a calm manner and get back to the good times. You’re trying to make positive memories, so let the negative in just long enough to resolve it and let it go.